PROVINCE REMINDS DRIVERS TO WATCH FOR NEW REDUCED-SPEED SCHOOL ZONES, SLOW DOWN

As the new school year begins, motorists are being asked to follow the posting of new signs alerting drivers to reduce their speed in school zones, Education and Advanced Learning Minister James Allum said today.

“This is a very exciting time of year for students and parents. It is up to drivers to ensure they are watching out for students in school zones,” said Minister Allum. “To ensure motorists are well aware they are entering a reduced speed zone, there are a number of news signs indicating the entering and leaving of a reduced speed zone.”

Local governments, such as municipalities and First Nations communities, have the power to decide where reduced-speed school zones are established on roadways within their geographical boundaries, the minister said.

Local governments can determine the maximum speed in reduced-speed school zones within the following parameters:

the maximum speed must not be lower than 30 km/h on roadways where the posted speed limit is less than 80 km/h; and

the maximum speed must not be lower than 50 km/h on roadways where the posted speed limit is 80 km/h or more.

The maximum speed for Winnipeg elementary schools (kindergarten through Grade 6) on

non-regional roads will be 30 km/h from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, September to June. The reduced speed zones will extend a maximum of 150 metres from the edge of the property including fields and playgrounds.

“We want to ensure students are safe all year round. Drivers, be cautious in school zones and slow down,” said Minister Allum. “We want this to be a safe school year for every student in this province and it is up to all of us to ensure the safety of those going to school.”